This is a week-long celebration held in the United States and in other nations of the African Diaspora in the Americas. The celebration honors African heritage in African-American culture and is observed from December 26 to January 1, culminating in a feast and gift-giving. Kwanzaa has seven core principles (Nguzo Saba). It was created by Maulana Karenga, in Los Angeles, California, and was first celebrated in 1966-67.